Inspections
2 hours
Learning Objectives
- •Conduct a systematic pre-shift inspection of boom trucks, loader-backhoes, and wheel loaders
- •Identify defects that must remove a machine from service immediately
- •Apply OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC inspection requirements to boom trucks
- •Document defects properly per MA and OSHA requirements
Topics Covered
- •OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1412: required crane/boom truck inspection frequency — shift, monthly, annual
- •Pre-shift visual: structural cracks in boom sections, welds, and mounting points
- •Wire rope inspection: broken wires, kinks, crushing, corrosion (ASME B30.5 discard criteria)
- •Boom extension pins and locking systems: secure, not bent or missing
- •Outrigger inspection: beam retract/extend function, float condition, hydraulic cylinders
- •Anti-two-block device function test: required before each shift
- •Load moment indicator (LMI) calibration and function test
- •Hydraulic hoses and fittings: abrasion, bulging, weeping, improper routing
- •Tires (loader-backhoe, wheel loader): pressure, tread depth, sidewall damage
- •Bucket and attachment security: pins, retaining clips, quick-attach mechanism
- •Stabilizer pads: cracks, wear, and size appropriate for ground conditions
- •Fluid levels: engine oil, coolant, hydraulic oil, fuel — check before every shift
- •Lights, horn, backup alarm: operational per OSHA 1926.602
- •Tagging out: "Do Not Operate" tag procedure and authority
Resources
Self-Check Questions
Question 1: Under OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1412, how often must a boom truck undergo a shift inspection?
- A. Once per week by the operator
- B. Before each shift by the operator or a qualified person(correct)
- C. Once per month by a certified inspector
- D. Only before lifts over 75% of rated capacity
Show Explanation
Explanation:
OSHA 1926.1412 requires a visual inspection before each shift. The operator is the front line of this inspection — catching problems before the shift starts prevents accidents and equipment damage.
Question 2: During a boom truck pre-shift inspection, you find the anti-two-block (ATB) device is not functioning. What must you do?
- A. Operate carefully and watch the load block closely
- B. Tag the machine "Do Not Operate" — ATB must be functional before any crane use(correct)
- C. Operate at reduced height to prevent two-blocking
- D. Notify the supervisor but continue operating until a replacement arrives
Show Explanation
Explanation:
A non-functional ATB device is a go/no-go item under OSHA 1926 Subpart CC. Two-blocking can snap wire rope or destroy the boom. The machine must not be used for crane lifts until the ATB is repaired and tested.
Question 3: Per ASME B30.5 wire rope discard criteria, how many broken wires in one lay length of a 6×19 rope is the maximum before it must be removed from service?
- A. 2 broken wires
- B. 6 broken wires(correct)
- C. 12 broken wires
- D. 18 broken wires
Show Explanation
Explanation:
ASME B30.5 specifies that wire rope on cranes must be discarded when 6 or more broken wires appear in one lay length (one complete spiral) of a 6-strand rope. Additional criteria include kinking, crushing, bird-caging, and corrosion.
Question 4: During a loader-backhoe pre-shift inspection, you find a hydraulic hose with a visible bulge but no leak. What is the correct action?
- A. Continue operating — it is cosmetic until fluid appears
- B. Wrap the hose with tape and monitor it through the shift
- C. Tag the machine out of service — a bulge indicates internal delamination and imminent failure(correct)
- D. Reduce hydraulic operating pressure and monitor the bulge
Show Explanation
Explanation:
A bulge in a hydraulic hose indicates the inner lining has delaminated and the outer braid is containing the pressure. Failure is imminent. The machine must be tagged out until the hose is replaced — a burst hose can inject fluid at high pressure and cause loss of control.
Question 5: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.602 requires all self-propelled construction equipment to have which safety feature when traveling in reverse?
- A. A certified spotter walking behind the machine
- B. An audible backup alarm that sounds automatically when in reverse(correct)
- C. A flashing amber warning light
- D. Both a spotter and a backup alarm in all cases
Show Explanation
Explanation:
OSHA 1926.602 requires an audible alarm that automatically sounds when equipment is put in reverse. The alarm must be audible above surrounding noise. A spotter is an additional best practice but the alarm is the mandatory baseline requirement.
Question 6: You find a crack at the weld connecting the boom's base section to the turntable on a boom truck. What do you do?
- A. Monitor it — small cracks are acceptable under ASME B30.5
- B. Grind the crack smooth and continue operating
- C. Remove the machine from service immediately and notify management(correct)
- D. Continue operating with reduced loads until a welder is available
Show Explanation
Explanation:
Any crack in a structural weld on a crane boom is a critical defect. This is a "remove from service" condition with no exception. Continued operation risks catastrophic boom failure under load. Only a qualified welder and inspector can return the machine to service.